Solar Energy Usage Patterns Among Low-Income Households in Dakar, Senegal: Accessibility and Economic Benefits Evaluation

Solar energy usage among low-income households in Dakar, Senegal is an underexplored area of research within the social sciences. An ethnographic study approach was employed to collect data through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with a purposive sample of households. Slightly over 40% of the sampled households reported using solar energy for lighting and cooking, highlighting its increasing acceptance despite economic constraints. The study underscores the need for tailored policies to enhance access to affordable solar energy technologies in Dakar’s low-income communities. Development of targeted subsidies and community-based support programmes to facilitate greater adoption of solar energy solutions among Senegalese households.